This Lobster Chowder is a luxurious, creamy soup that celebrates the sweet, tender flavor of lobster meat. With a velvety broth, hearty vegetables, and a buttery richness, this dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lobster meat, cooked and chopped
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: A decadent soup that feels like a treat.
- Packed with Lobster Flavor: Tender chunks of lobster star in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Comes together in about 40 minutes with straightforward steps.
- Versatile: Great as a main course or an elegant appetizer.
How to Make Lobster Chowder
1. SautΓ© the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat them evenly.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Build the Broth
- Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth, stirring constantly to combine with the roux and avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Add the Lobster and Cream
- Stir in the heavy cream, cooked lobster meat, and Old Bay seasoning (if using).
- Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Taste and Adjust
- Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the rich, creamy broth.
- Oyster Crackers: A traditional and delightful addition.
- Side Salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the chowder.
Tips for the Best Lobster Chowder
- Use Fresh Lobster: If possible, use fresh, high-quality lobster meat for the best flavor.
- Donβt Boil the Cream: Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Add More Seafood: Include shrimp, scallops, or crab for a seafood medley.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of sherry or white wine during cooking for extra depth.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: Avoid freezing, as the cream can separate when thawed.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Do not bring to a boil.
Final Thoughts
This Lobster Chowder is an indulgent, flavorful dish thatβs perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with seafood goodness, itβs sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Let me know how yours turns outβand donβt forget to share your creative additions or serving ideas! π¦β¨